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Restless Legs Syndrome

Get Help for Restless Legs Syndrome—and a Better Night’s Rest

When you think of sleep, you might imagine a soft, comfy bed, leisurely slumber and pleasant dreams. But if you have restless legs syndrome (RLS), you know sleep isn’t always like that. Uncomfortable sensations in your legs and an unrelenting need to move them can make it hard to get a good night’s rest.

Emory Sleep Center can help you get relief. Our experienced sleep specialists diagnose and treat all types of sleep disorders, including RLS. Our goal is to improve your symptoms, which will help improve your quality of life.

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Why Choose Emory Healthcare

Experts at Emory Sleep Center provide outstanding patient care and advance the field of sleep medicine through research. Our center has received accreditation from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, which speaks to our commitment to deliver the highest-quality services. 

Our team includes sleep medicine physicians, nurse practitioners and sleep technologists. Together, they create a personalized treatment plan to help you sleep better, function better and enjoy life more.

What Is Restless Legs Syndrome?

RLS causes uncomfortable sensations in your legs. Some people describe these sensations as a tingly, crawly, burning or prickly feeling. The sensations lead to an overwhelming urge to move your legs in jerky motions that may occur several times a minute.

RLS interferes with your sleep. Symptoms may be mild or severe. But treatment can help you manage it.

Restless Legs Syndrome Symptoms

When you have RLS, the sensations you feel usually:

  • Affect both legs
  • Are worse at night
  • Improve if you move your legs or stand
  • Worsen when you sit or lie down

Although rare, some people experience similar feelings in their arms. Symptoms can make you feel tired during the day because you don’t get enough sleep at night.

Restless Legs Syndrome Risk Factors

Factors that increase your risk for RLS include:

  • Being a woman
  • Being older than 50
  • Family history of the condition
  • Iron deficiency
  • Overuse of caffeine
  • Parkinson’s disease, kidney disease, nerve damage or certain other medical conditions
  • Pregnancy
  • Some medications, including those for allergies, colds, depression, high blood pressure, nausea and certain heart conditions

Restless Legs Syndrome Diagnosis

We can usually diagnose RLS based on your symptoms and blood tests. Occasionally, we may recommend a sleep study.
Tips That May Help Control Restless Legs Syndrome
Our sleep specialists will offer treatments to help control RLS symptoms. You can also take steps on your own to help manage your condition.

Restless Legs Syndrome Treatments

We typically treat RLS with medication. If medication isn’t right for you or isn’t effective, your provider may discuss other options with you.

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